Loaned pokies will assist bowling club

AFTER a devastating act of robbery and vandalism last weekend, North Beach Bowling Club looked set to have a lean holiday season.

That was until a fellow Coffs Harbour club came to the rescue by loaning 10 gaming machines to the beleaguered club.

Thieves rendered 14 gaming machines inoperable during last weekend's break-in, impacting on the club's primary source of income during the busy January trading period.

"It was heart-breaking to see all the damage done to a small club that contributes much to the local community," North Beach Bowling and Recreation Club secretary manager Craig Wykes said.

"With the holiday season upon us, and the Putt Bennett Fishing Festival happening, trade was going to be severely affected.

But Coffs Ex-Services Club has come to the rescue by loaning 10 gaming machines to the North Beach Club.

"Coffs Ex-Services Club realised the enormous effect the damage would have and loaned the machines to assist North Beach Club in continuing to generate revenue while insurance claims are being finalised and the gaming machines are repaired."

"I am extremely grateful for the generosity offered by the Coffs Ex-Services Club board and management," club secretary Mr Wykes said.